Fastening element

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a fastening element (100) for fastening a first component (6) to a second component (4). The fastening element (100) comprises a body (102), which comprises a first engagement portion (104) on a first side (106), wherein the first engagement portion (104) comprises either a recess or a projection for mating with a complimentary shaped engagement portion of the first component. The body (102) further comprises a first set of through holes (110) for receipt of fasteners, wherein the first set of through holes are positioned in such a way that the first engagement portion (104) of the body and the complimentary shaped engagement portion of the first component may be held against each other in an engaged state via the fasteners.

This application is a 35 USC 371 national phase filing of internationalapplication no. PCT/EP2018/050499, filed Jan. 10, 2018, which claimspriority to Indian patent application no. 201741003582, filed Jan. 31,2017, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference intheir entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a fastening element for fastening a firstcomponent to a second component. The fastening element may be used forfastening a component to a vehicle chassis component.

A typical chassis for a truck comprises two elongated and parallel frameside members of U-profile. Components, such as containers for fuel andother fluids, batteries, exhaust after treatment devices etc may befastened to the frame side members via such fastening elements possiblyvia brackets. Further, the truck chassis comprises a plurality of framecross members connecting the frame side members, wherein the frame crossmembers are arranged spaced in a longitudinal direction of the frameside members. Such a frame cross member may be fastened to the frameside member via such fastening elements. Further, such a fasteningelement may be used for fastening components, possibly via brackets, tosuch a frame cross member.

The invention can be applied in heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks,buses and construction equipment such as working machines in the form ofwheel loaders, articulated haulers, excavators and backhoe loaders.Although the invention will be described with respect to a truck, theinvention is not restricted to this particular vehicle, but may also beused in other vehicles/machines as mentioned above and also in otherapplications such as passenger cars.

SUMMARY

An object of the invention is to provide a fastening element, whichcreates conditions for a low weight robust connection of two components,especially in an application where the connection is subjected tovibration and/or high loads, such as in a vehicle/machine.

The object is achieved by a fastening element according to claim 1.Thus, the object is achieved via a fastening element for fastening afirst component to a second component, wherein the fastening elementcomprises a body, which comprises a first engagement portion on a firstside, wherein the first engagement portion comprises either a recess ora projection for mating with a complimentary shaped engagement portionof the first component, wherein the body further comprises a first setof through holes for receipt of fasteners, wherein the first set ofthrough holes are positioned in such a way that the first engagementportion of the body and the complimentary shaped engagement portion ofthe first component may be held against each other in an engaged statevia the fasteners.

More specifically, the first engagement portion of the body and thecomplimentary shaped engagement portion of the first component may beadapted to form a form fit. Tightening of the fasteners after arrangingthe engagement portions in engagement establish the form fit connection,wherein the engagement portions are pushed or forced into an engagementstate, in which the body and the first component are locked to eachother, during the tightening. The fasteners may for example be formed bybolts/screws or rivets.

This design creates conditions for reduced stresses in a region of thefirst component (such as in an associated bracket) adjacent thefastening element, which in turn creates conditions for a longer life ofthe arrangement.

Further, the specific type of engagement via complimentary shapedrecesses and projections creates conditions for utilizing friction inthe engagement, which creates conditions for a reduced size of thefastening element and/or a reduced number of fasteners like rivets andbolts. Further, a small size, and more specifically a small thickness,of the fastening element creates conditions for a low production cost.

Further, this design creates conditions for a time-efficient assemblyoperation in that the first component/bracket is connected to thefastening element via said fasteners and possibly only via saidfasteners.

The first set of through holes may be positioned in parallel with anengagement direction of the first engagement portion for engagement withthe complimentary shaped engagement portion of the first component.

More specifically, the first set of through holes are positioned in sucha way that the body and the first component are moved relative to oneanother in a direction towards an engaged state during tightening of thefasteners, wherein the facing engagement surfaces of the body and thefirst component are moved into a rigid connection during the tightening.

More specifically, each one of the holes in the first set of throughholes preferably has an extension in parallel with a depth/heightdirection of the recess/process.

According to one embodiment, the first engagement portion has anelongated shape. Preferably, the first engagement portion has a straightextension. More specifically, each one of the holes in the first set ofthrough holes preferably has an extension perpendicularly in relation toa longitudinal direction of the recess/process.

This design creates conditions for fastening components of considerabledimensions and weights in a secure way. Especially, the complimentaryshaped engagement portion of the first component may be designed with anelongated shape (and size) forming at least a substantial overlap withthe first engagement portion and preferably being of substantially samelength as the length of the first engagement portion of the fasteningelement.

According to a further embodiment, the first engagement portion has thesame cross sectional shape (and size) in spaced positions along alongitudinal direction of the first engagement portion. Morespecifically, the first engagement portion may have a uniform crosssection shape (and size) in the longitudinal direction. This designcreates conditions for a reduced weight of the fastening element inrelation to existing solutions.

According to a further embodiment, the first engagement portion extendsthe complete distance between opposite ends of the body. This designcreates conditions for a cost-effective production of the fasteningelement, such as via extrusion followed by machining the through holes.This design creates further conditions for a cost-effective productionin that extrusion cost is relatively low and final machining cost isrelatively low. Further, the fastening element may be produced in anylength in an easy way.

According to a further embodiment, the first engagement portioncomprises a recess. Accordingly, the complimentary shaped engagementportion of the first component comprises a projection. This designcreates conditions for receiving a first end of the fastener in a secureway. More specifically, in the case of the fastener forming a bolt, thisdesign creates conditions for receiving a bolt head or corresponding nutin a secure way.

According to a further embodiment, the first engagement portioncomprises a flat surface. The through holes are preferably providedthrough the flat surface, wherein by proper dimensioning, there may bespace for corresponding fasteners to be tightened in a proper way.Preferably in the case that the first engagement portion is elongated,the flat surface is also elongated and extends in parallel with alongitudinal direction of the first engagement portion. Preferably, theflat surface extends over a complete extension of the first engagementportion.

According to a further embodiment, the first set of through holesextends between the first side of the body and a second side of the bodyopposite the first side. This design creates conditions for a securefastening of the first component to the fastening element.

According to a further embodiment, at least one through hole of thefirst set of through holes extend through the first engagement portionon the first side of the body. Preferably the through holes extendthrough the flat surface forming a bottom of the recess (or top of theprojection), wherein by arranging the through holes through the flatsurface, the fasteners may be securely tightened. To avoid looseningissues in some applications fasteners may need to be tightened with ahigh torque. An extension of the flat surface transverse to itslongitudinal direction should be sufficient for access for tightening ofthe fasteners.

According to a further embodiment, the holes in the first set of throughholes are arranged in parallel with each other and spaced from eachother in a first direction. More specifically, the holes in the firstset of through holes may be arranged in a spaced relationship along astraight line. In the case of an elongated shape of the first engagementportion/recess, first direction of the holes may be in parallel with thelongitudinal direction of the first engagement portion/recess.

According to a further embodiment, the body comprises a secondengagement portion on a second side opposite the first side, wherein thesecond engagement portion comprises either a recess or a projection.This design creates conditions for receiving a second end of thefastener in a secure way. More specifically, in the case of the fastenerforming a bolt, this design creates conditions for receiving a bolt heador corresponding nut in a secure way.

Further, the second engagement portion on the second side of the bodymay be designed for engagement with a complimentary shaped engagementportion of the second component, preferably via form fit.

This design with both a first and a second engagement portion createsconditions for using a single chassis interface for mounting severalchassis components.

Further, the second engagement portion on the second side of the bodymay have a shape and dimension similar to or exactly the same as thefirst engagement portion on the first side of the body. In other words,the body may be symmetrical with regard to a center plane between thefirst side and the second side of the body. Thus, the second engagementportion may have an elongated shape and preferably a straight extension.Further, the second engagement portion may have the same cross sectionalshape in spaced positions along a longitudinal direction of the secondengagement portion. Further, the second engagement portion may have thesame cross sectional shape as the first engagement portion. Further, thesecond engagement portion may extend the complete distance betweenopposite ends of the body. Further, the second engagement portionextends in parallel with the first engagement portion. In other words, alongitudinal direction of the second engagement portion extends inparallel with a longitudinal direction of the first engagement portion.Further, the second engagement portion may comprise a recess.

According to a further embodiment, the fastening element comprises asecond set of through holes for receipt of fasteners for fastening thefastening element to the second component. The through holes of thesecond set may be arranged spaced from the through holes of the firstset. Preferably each one of the first set and the second set comprises aplurality of through holes arranged in a row and every second hole isfrom the first set. According to one example, the second set of throughholes extends between a third side and a fourth side of the body.Further, according to a further variant, at least one of the third sideand the fourth side of the body comprises a planar surface. Arrangingthe holes through the planar surface and preferably with an extensionperpendicularly in relation to the planar surface creates conditions fortightening the corresponding fasteners in a secure way.

Further, this design creates conditions for a facilitated assembly ofcomponents also in difficult positions, such as on both sides of a frameside member.

According to a further embodiment, an extension direction of at leastone hole of the second set of through holes differs from an extensiondirection of at least one hole of the first set of through holes.According to one example, an extension direction of at least one hole ofthe second set of through holes is perpendicular in relation to at leastone hole of the first set of through holes. According to one example,the holes in the second set of through holes are arranged in parallelwith each other and spaced in a second direction.

According to a further embodiment, the body has an elongated shape.According to one example, the elongated first engagement means extendsin parallel with a longitudinal direction of the elongated body. Thisdesign creates conditions for a cost-effective production, such as byextrusion followed by machining the through holes. Thus, according to afurther embodiment, the body has the same exterior cross sectional shapein spaced positions along a longitudinal direction of the body.According to one example, the body is formed by extrusion followed bymachining the holes. According to a further example, the elongatedsecond engagement means extends in parallel with the longitudinaldirection of the elongated body.

According to a further embodiment, the body is formed in aluminium or analuminium alloy. This design creates conditions for a light-weightfastener element and it creates conditions for being formed viaextrusion. Further, aluminium has a wide strength range, a high strengthto weight ratio, is not susceptible to corrosion with a simple andeffective anodizing process, no extra surface treatment is needed, itreduces weight on total installation and friction characteristics aregood.

According to a further embodiment, the second component is a vehiclechassis component. Such a chassis component may in turn be formed by anelongated frame side member or a cross member in a truck.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it regards a chassisarrangement for a vehicle, wherein the chassis arrangement comprises afirst vehicle chassis component, a second vehicle chassis component andand a fastening element according to any one of the precedingembodiments, examples and variants, wherein the first vehicle chassiscomponent is fastened to the second vehicle chassis component via thefastening element. According to one example, the chassis arrangementcomprises two elongated and parallel frame side members, wherein thesecond vehicle chassis component is formed by one of said elongatedframe side members.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it regards a vehiclecomprising a chassis arrangement according to above.

Further advantages and advantageous features of the invention aredisclosed in the following description and in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

With reference to the appended drawings, below follows a more detaileddescription of embodiments of the invention cited as examples.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 shows a truck in a perspective front view, wherein the truckcomprises a chassis arrangement according to a first embodiment, whichin turn comprises a fastening element according to a first embodiment,

FIGS. 2a and 2b show the fastening element according to the firstembodiment in FIG. 1 in a perspective view and a side view,respectively,

FIGS. 2c and 2d show a fastening element according to a secondembodiment in a perspective view and a side view, respectively,

FIGS. 2e and 2f show a fastening element according to a third embodimentin a perspective view and a side view, respectively,

FIGS. 2g and 2h show a fastening element according to a fourthembodiment in a perspective view and a side view, respectively,

FIGS. 2i and 2j show a fastening element according to a fifth embodimentin a perspective view and a side view, respectively,

FIG. 3a shows the chassis arrangement according to FIG. 1 in an enlargedview,

FIG. 3b shows the chassis arrangement according to FIG. 3a in anexploded view,

FIG. 4 shows a chassis arrangement according to a second embodiment in aperspective, partly exploded view.

FIG. 5 shows a chassis arrangement according to a third embodiment in aperspective, partly cut view from above.

FIGS. 6a and 6b show a chassis arrangement according to a fourthembodiment in perspective views from opposite sides.

FIGS. 7a and 7b show a chassis arrangement according to a fifthembodiment in perspective views from opposite sides.

FIG. 8 shows a chassis arrangement according to a sixth embodiment inperspective view from above.

FIG. 9a shows a chassis arrangement according to a seventh embodiment ina perspective view from above.

FIG. 9b shows the chassis arrangement according to FIG. 9a in a partlycut view.

FIGS. 10 and 11 show a chassis arrangement according to an eighthembodiment in two perspective, exploded views from opposite sides.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows a vehicle in the form of a truck 1 in a perspective frontview. The truck 1 comprises a cab 2 and a chassis arrangement 3according to a first embodiment. The chassis arrangement 3 comprises twoelongated and parallel frame side members 4, 5. Each one of the frameside members 4, 5 has a U-shaped cross sectional shape. Further, the twoframe side members 4, 5 are arranged so that an open side of the “U”sface each other. A pair of identical fastening elements 100 according toa first embodiment is arranged for fastening a first vehicle component 6in the form of a bracket structure for a battery box to a second vehiclecomponent, which is here exemplified by one of the frame side members 4.

FIGS. 2a and 2b shows one of the fastening elements 100 according to thefirst embodiment in a perspective view and a side view, respectively.The fastening element 100 comprises a body 102, which comprises a firstengagement portion 104 on a first side 106. The first engagement portion104 comprises an abutment surface. Further, the first engagement portion104 comprises a recess 108 for mating with a complimentary shapedengagement portion (projection) of the first component 6. Thus, thecomplimentary shaped engagement portion (projection) of the firstcomponent 6 comprises an abutment surface. Further, the body 102 furthercomprises a first set of through holes 110 adapted for receipt offasteners (not shown), wherein the first set of through holes 110 arepositioned in such a way that the first engagement portion 104 of thebody 102 and the complimentary shaped engagement portion of the firstcomponent 6 may be held against each other in an engaged state via thefasteners. More specifically, at least one through hole of the first setof through holes 110 extends through the first engagement portion 104 onthe first side 106 of the body.

In other words, the fastening element 100 is adapted for a form fitrelative to the first component 6. Further, the position and directionof the holes 110 and provision of the associated fasteners are arrangedfor establishing the form fit, wherein the engagement portions areforced into engagement via application/tightening of the fasteners. Morespecifically, the first set of through holes 110 are positioned inparallel with an engagement direction of the first engagement portion104 for engagement with the complimentary shaped engagement portion ofthe first component. The fasteners may be of a type, which is adaptedfor a gradual engagement via tightening, wherein the fasteners may havean external threading, such as screws, wherein the engagement portionsare pushed relative to one another towards the engagement state.Accordingly, also the through holes may be provided with a complimentaryshaped threading for engagement.

The first engagement portion 104 has an elongated shape. Morespecifically, the first engagement portion 104 has a straight extensiondirection. Further, the first engagement portion 104 has the same crosssectional shape in spaced positions along a longitudinal direction 111of the first engagement portion. More specifically, the first engagementportion 104 has the same shape (and size) along its entire extension inits longitudinal direction. More specifically, the first engagementportion 104 extends the complete distance between opposite ends 112, 114of the body 102.

Further, the first engagement portion 104 comprises a flat surface 116,which is elongated and extends in parallel with the longitudinaldirection of the first engagement portion 104. The flat surface 116forms a center section of the first engagement portion 104 and in thiscase a bottom in the recess. Further, the first engagement portion 104comprises an elongated transition region 126 at one side of the firstengagement portion 104, wherein the elongated transition region 126comprises a first surface with a concave, rounded shape adjacent theflat surface 126 and a second surface with a convex, rounded shapeadjacent the first, concave surface and on an opposite side in relationto the flat surface. The second surface with a convex, rounded shape hasa smaller radius than a radius of the first surface with the concave,rounded shape. Further, the first engagement portion 104 comprises afurther elongated transition region 129 at an opposite side of the firstengagement portion 104, wherein the further elongated transition region129 has a similar shape as the transition region 126. More specifically,the first engagement portion 104 has a symmetrical shape with regard toa second symmetry plane 131 of the body 102, which is perpendicular to afirst symmetry plane 122 of the body 102.

Further, the first set of through holes 110 extend between the firstside 106 of the body 102 and a second side 118 of the body 102 oppositethe first side. Further, the first set of through holes 110 are providedthrough the flat surface and perpendicularly in relation to an extensionplane of the flat surface, wherein the fasteners may be securelyconnected and disconnected. To avoid loosening issues, it may berequired that the fasteners are tightened with high torque.

The holes in the first set of through holes 110 are arranged in parallelwith each other and spaced from each other in a first direction, whereinthe first direction is in parallel with the longitudinal direction 111of the first engagement portion 104.

The body 102 comprises a second engagement portion 120 on the secondside 118, wherein the second engagement portion 120 comprises a recess.The second engagement portion 120 has an elongated shape. Morespecifically, the second engagement portion 120 has a straight extensiondirection. Further, the second engagement portion 120 has the same crosssectional shape in spaced positions along a longitudinal direction 111of the second engagement portion. More specifically, the secondengagement portion 120 has the same shape along its entire extension inits longitudinal direction. More specifically, the second engagementportion 120 extends the complete distance between the opposite ends 112,114 of the body 102. More specifically, the longitudinal direction ofthe second engagement portion 120 is in parallel with the longitudinaldirection of the first engagement portion 104. More specifically, thesecond engagement portion 120 has the same cross sectional shape anddimension as the first engagement portion 104. The body 102 has asymmetrical shape with regard to a center plane 122 between the firstside 106 and the second side 118.

The holes in the first set of through holes 110 extends through thesecond engagement portion 120 and more specifically through a flatbottom surface 124 of the second engagement portion 120. The planarsurface 116 of the first side 106 extends in a plane in parallel with anextension plane of the planar surface 124 of the second side 118. Thesecond engagement portion 120 is adapted for receipt of an end part ofthe fastener, such as a screw head or nut. Further, the secondengagement portion 120 is designed for achieving a form fit for matingwith a complimentary shaped engagement portion of another component.

Further, the fastening element 100 comprises a second set of throughholes 130 for receipt of fasteners for fastening the fastening element100 to the second component 4 (one of the side frame members). Thesecond set of through holes 130 extend between a third side 132 and afourth side 134 opposite the third side 132 of the body 102. Further,the second set of through holes 130 comprises a plurality of spacedholes 130 arranged in parallel with each other. Further, the holes 130are spaced along a straight line, which is in parallel with alongitudinal direction 111 of the body 102. Each one of the third side132 and the fourth side 134 of the body 102 comprises a planar surface136, 138 and the holes 130 extend through the planar surfaces 136, 138.The planar surface 136 of the third side 132 extend in a plane inparallel with an extension plane of the planar surface 138 of the fourthside 134. The planar surfaces 136, 138 of the third and fourth side 132,134 of the body 102 are arranged perpendicular in relation to the planarsurfaces 116,124 of the first and second engagement portions 104,118.Further, the second set of through holes 130 extends perpendicular inrelation to the first set of through holes 110.

Thus, the body 102 has an elongated shape with a longitudinal direction111. A longitudinal direction of each one of the first and secondengagement portions 106,118 extends in parallel with the longitudinaldirection of the elongated body 102. The elongated body 102 has asymmetrical shape with regard to each one of the first and secondsymmetry planes 122,131. Further, the elongated body 102 has the sameexterior cross sectional shape in spaced positions along a longitudinaldirection of the body. More specifically, the elongated body 102 has auniform cross sectional shape along its longitudinal direction 111,which creates conditions for being formed by extrusion (followed bymachining the holes). Further, the body 102 may be formed in aluminiumor an aluminium alloy. Further, the elongated body 102 has an internalchamber 140 for weight saving, which extends in parallel with thelongitudinal direction 111 of the body 102.

FIGS. 2c and 2d show the fastening element 200 according to a secondembodiment in a perspective view and a side view, respectively. For easeof presentation, only the main differences in relation to the firstembodiment will be described. The fastening element 200 according to thesecond embodiment has a shorter length in its longitudinal direction 211in relation to the fastening element 100 according to the firstembodiment. Further, the number of through holes in the first set ofholes 210 and in the second set of holes 230, respectively, is reducedcorresponding to the shorter length. Further, the body 202 is devoid ofany elongated internal chamber. In other words, the body 202 is solidsave for the first and second set of holes 210,230.

Further, a center plane 233 of the body 202 is offset in relation to acenter plane 232 of the first engagement portion 204, wherein the bodyhas a longer extension 250 on one side of the first engagement portion204 than an extension 252 on the other side of the first engagementportion 204 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the firstengagement portion 204.

FIGS. 2e and 2f show the fastening element 300 according to a thirdembodiment in a perspective view and a side view, respectively. For easeof presentation, only the main differences in relation to the secondembodiment will be described. The body 302 has a longer extension 350 onsaid one side of the first engagement portion 304 than the extension 250on said one side of the first engagement portion 204 according to thesecond embodiment perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of thefirst engagement portion. More specifically, the extension 350 is about50% of the complete extension of the body 302 perpendicular to thelongitudinal direction of the body.

FIGS. 2g and 2h show the fastening element 400 according to a fourthembodiment in a perspective view and a side view, respectively. For easeof presentation, only the main differences in relation to the secondembodiment will be described. The body 402 has a longer extension 450 onsaid one side of the first engagement portion 404 than the extension 250on said one side of the first engagement portion 204 according to thesecond embodiment perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of thefirst engagement portion. Further, a thickness of the body 402 betweenan innermost surface of the recessed first and second engagementportions 404, 420 is relatively smaller in the fourth embodiment inrelation to the second embodiment. Further, the number of holes in thefirst set of through holes 410 is reduced from four to three in thefourth embodiment in relation to the second embodiment.

FIGS. 2i and 2j show the fastening element 500 according to a fifthembodiment in a perspective view and a side view, respectively. For easeof presentation, only the main differences in relation to the firstembodiment will be described. The fastening element 500 according to thefifth embodiment has a shorter length in its longitudinal direction 511in relation to the fastening element 100 according to the firstembodiment. Further, the number of through holes in the first set ofholes 510 and in the second set of holes 530, respectively, is reducedcorresponding to the shorter length. Further, the body 502 comprises athird set of through holes 560 adapted for receipt of fasteners or otherform of matching projections, such as locating pins. The through holes560 extend in parallel with the longitudinal direction 511 of the body502 between opposite ends 512,514 of the body.

FIG. 3a shows the chassis arrangement 3 according to FIG. 1 in anenlarged view. The chassis arrangement 3 comprises the frame side member4. A pair of fastening elements 100 is arranged for fastening thebracket structure 6 to the frame side member 4. The bracket structure 6comprises a means 10 for supporting the battery box. The supportingmeans 10 is formed by a plate shaped member. The bracket structure 6further comprises two side walls 12,14, one on each side of the supportmeans 10. The bracket structure 6 may be formed by a sheet metal. Theside walls 12,14, extend in a plane perpendicular to an extension planeof the plate shaped member 10. One elongated, straight edge 16, 18 ofeach one of the side walls 12, 14 is connected to the frame side member4 via the pair of fastening elements 100. Further, the frame side member4 is elongated with a main extension 20. Each one of the fasteningelements 100 is arranged so that its longitudinal direction 111 extendsperpendicularly to the extension direction 20 of the frame side member4.

The chassis arrangement 3 comprises a first set of fasteners 22 arrangedin the first set of through holes 110 for connecting a complimentaryshaped engagement portion 24 of the side wall 12 to the first engagementportion 104 of the fastening element 100. More specifically, the sidewall 12 has an end region, which is bent forming an elongatedprojection, which in turn forms the complimentary shaped engagementportion 24. The fasteners 22 are here formed by screws, wherein a nut 28is associated to each screw, se FIG. 3 b.

Further, the chassis arrangement 3 comprises a second set of fasteners26 arranged in the second set of through holes 130 for connecting thefastening element 100 to the frame side member 4. The frame side member4 is provided with a hole pattern 30 commensurate with the second set ofthrough holes 130 for receipt of said fasteners 26.

Further, the second engagement portion 120 on the second side 118 of thefastening element 100 is accessible for attachment of a furthercomponent.

FIG. 3b shows the chassis arrangement according to FIG. 3a in anexploded view.

FIG. 4 shows a chassis arrangement 30 according to a second embodimentin a perspective, partly exploded view. The chassis arrangement 30comprises a frame cross member 32, which is adapted to be rigidlyconnected to one of the frame side members 4,5 via two brackets 34,36and four fastening elements 200 according to the second embodiment shownin FIGS. 2c and 2d . More specifically, the frame cross member 32comprises a lower elongated plate shaped part 38 and an upper elongatedplate shaped part 40, which are arranged in parallel spacedrelationship. A first of said brackets 34 is arranged on top of theupper plate shaped part 40 and rigidly connected to the same in aparallel relationship. Further, the bracket 34 comprises two engagementportions 42, 44, each of which is complimentary shaped in relation to afirst engagement portion 104 of an associated fastening element 100.Further, the bracket 34 has a longer extension than the frame sidemember 4 in a transverse direction of the frame side member 4 so thatthe complimentary shaped engagement portions 42, 44 are accessible oneach side of the frame side member 4. Further, each one of thecomplimentary shaped engagement portions 42, 44 has an elongated shapeand they extend in parallel with each other. Further, each one of thecomplimentary shaped engagement portions 42, 44 forms a projection forengagement with the associated recessed first engagement portion 204 ofthe fastening element 200. Further, the bracket 34 is arranged in such away relative to the cross member 32 that the complimentary shapedengagement portions 42, 44 extend perpendicularly in relation to alongitudinal direction of the cross member 32.

Further, each one of the complimentary shaped engagement portions 42, 44comprises a hole pattern commensurate with the first set of throughholes 210 so that the bracket 34 may be fastened to the fasteningelement 200 via a plurality of fasteners 46 in the first set of throughholes 210 and the commensurate hole pattern in the complimentary shapedengagement portions 42, 44. Further, the second set of through holes 230is accessible for fastening of the fastening element 200 to the frameside member via a further set of fasteners.

In a similar manner, a second of said brackets 36 is arranged below thelower plate shaped part 38 and rigidly connected to the same, whereinthe second bracket 36 is adapted for a rigid connection of the framecross member 32 to the associated frame side member via the fasteningelements 200 in a similar way as has been describe above for the firstbracket 34.

FIG. 5 shows a chassis arrangement 50 in the form of a cab suspensionanchorage according to a third embodiment in a perspective view fromabove. The chassis arrangement 50 comprises a pair of vertical framemembers 52, 54. Each one of the vertical frame members 52, 54 is adaptedto be rigidly connected to one of said frame side members 4,5. Further,the chassis arrangement 50 comprises a cross member 56 bridging thedistance between the vertical frame members 52, 54. Further, the chassisarrangement 50 comprises two fastening elements 300 according to thethird embodiment. One of said fastening elements 300 is arranged torigidly connect a first end of the cross member 56 to a first one of thevertical frame members 52 and a second one of said fastening elements300 is arranged to rigidly connect a second end of the cross member 56to a second one of the vertical frame members 54. Each end of the crossmember 56 comprises an engagement portion 58,59 in the form of anelongated projection, which is complimentary shaped to the recessedfirst engagement portion 304 of the associated fastening element 300.More specifically, each one of the complimentary shaped engagementportions 58,59 is elongated and extends perpendicularly in relation to amain extension direction of the cross member 56. Further, each one ofthe complimentary shaped engagement portions 58,59 comprises a holepattern commensurate with the first set of through holes in thefastening element 300. Further, each one of the vertical side members52, 54 comprises a hole pattern commensurate with the second set ofthrough holes in the fastening element 300.

In a similar manner as has been described above for the first and secondembodiments, the fastening element 300 is rigidly connected to the crossmember 56 via fasteners in the first set of through holes and thecommensurate hole pattern in the cross member 56. Further, also in asimilar manner as has been described above, the fastening element 300 isrigidly connected to the vertical side members 52, 54 via fasteners inthe second set of through holes and the commensurate hole pattern in thevertical side members 52, 54.

FIGS. 6a and 6b show a chassis arrangement 60 according to a fourthembodiment in perspective views from above from opposite sides. Thechassis arrangement 60 comprises said two frame side members 4,5.Further, the chassis arrangement 50 comprises a cross member 62 bridgingthe distance between the frame side members 4,5. The cross member 62 hasa U-shaped cross sectional shape. Further, the cross member 62 hassufficient length for being accommodated in the U-shaped frame sidemembers 4,5 at each end. Further, the chassis arrangement 60 comprisestwo pairs of the fastening element 400 according to the fourthembodiment.

Further, the cross member 62 comprises an upper elongated plate-shapedmember 64 and a lower elongated plate-shaped member 66, which arearranged in parallel with each other, in a spaced relationship and inparallel with a longitudinal direction of the cross member 62. Each endof the upper elongated plate-shaped member 64 comprises a complimentaryshaped engagement portion 68, 70. Each one of the complimentary shapedengagement portion 68, 70 comprises an elongated projection with alongitudinal direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of thecross member 62. Both projections 68,70 faces upwards. In a similarmanner, each end of the lower elongated plate-shaped member 66 comprisesa complimentary shaped engagement portion 72,74. Each one of thecomplimentary shaped engagement portion 72,74 comprises an elongatedprojection with a longitudinal direction perpendicular to a longitudinaldirection of the cross member 62. Both projections 72,74 facesdownwards. Further, each one of the upper elongated plate-shaped member64 and the lower elongated plate-shaped member 66 comprises a holepattern in the complimentary shaped engagement portion 68,70,72,74commensurate with the first set of through holes 410 of the associatedfastening element 400.

Each one of the four fastening elements 400 is arranged so that therecessed engagement portion 404 is in engagement with an associated oneof the four projections 68,70,72,74 and fastened to the respective oneof the elongated plate-shaped member 64,66 via fasteners.

Further, each one of the frame side members 4,5 comprises a hole pattern76,78,80,82 in the main side wall 84,86 commensurate with the second setof through holes 430 of the associated fastening element 400. Further,the cross member 62 is fastened to the frame side members 4,5 viafasteners in each one of the commensurate holes in the hole pattern76,78,80,82 and the second set of through holes 430 of the fasteningelements 400.

FIGS. 7a and 7b show a chassis arrangement 90 according to a fifthembodiment in perspective views from above from opposite sides. Thefifth embodiment is a variant of the fourth embodiment. For ease ofpresentation, only the main differences will be described below. Thecross member 92 comprises an upper elongated plate-shaped member 93 anda lower elongated plate-shaped member 94, which are arranged in parallelwith each other, in a spaced relationship and in parallel with alongitudinal direction of the cross member 92. Each end of the upperelongated plate-shaped member 94 comprises a complimentary shapedengagement portion 95, 96. Each one of the complimentary shapedengagement portion 95, 96 comprises an elongated projection with alongitudinal direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of thecross member 92. Both projections 95,96 faces downwards. In a similarmanner, each end of the lower elongated plate-shaped member 94 comprisesa complimentary shaped engagement portion 97,98. Each one of thecomplimentary shaped engagement portions 97,98 comprises an elongatedprojection with a longitudinal direction perpendicular to a longitudinaldirection of the cross member 92. Both projections 97,98 face upwards.

FIG. 8 shows a chassis arrangement 150 according to a sixth embodimentin a perspective view from above. The chassis arrangement 150 comprisesone of said frame side members 4 and a component 152, which is attachedto an external side of the frame side member 4 via two fasteningelements 500 according to the fifth embodiment. More specifically, thecomponent 152 comprises two elongated brackets 154,156 extending in aspaced, parallel relationship. Each one of the elongated brackets154,156 comprises a complimentary shaped engagement portion 158,160 inthe form of a projection for engagement with a first engagement portion504 in the form of a recess of the associated fastening element 500.Further, both projections 158,160 face downwards, wherein the fasteningelements 500 are arranged so that an upper side of each one is inengagement with the associated elongated bracket. Further, each one ofthe elongated brackets 154,156 is fastened to the associated fasteningelement 500 via fasteners in a way similar to what has been describedabove and the fastening element 500 is fastened to the frame side member4 via fasteners in a way similar to what has been described above.

FIG. 9a shows a chassis arrangement 162 according to a seventhembodiment in a perspective view from above. FIG. 9b shows the chassisarrangement 162 according to FIG. 9a in a partly cut view. The seventhembodiment is a variant of the sixth embodiment. For ease ofpresentation, only the main differences will be described below. Thechassis arrangement 162 comprises a single bracket 164, which engagestwo fastener elements 500, which are fastened to the side frame member 4on top of each other in a spaced relationship. The bracket 164 has theshape of a hook, wherein a first end 166 of the hook comprises acomplimentary shaped engagement portion 168 in the form of a projectionfor engagement with a first engagement portion 504 in the form of arecess on an upper side of the upper fastening element 500. A second end170 of the hook comprises a complimentary shaped engagement portion 172in the form of a projection for engagement with a first engagementportion 504 in the form of a recess on an upper side of the lowerfastening element 500. Further, the bracket 164 comprises an abutmentsurface 174 facing away from the frame side member 4. The abutmentsurface 174 has a curved shape and extends over a main portion of thehook in a direction between the first and second ends. Further, thebracket 164 is fastened to the associated fastening element 500 viafasteners in a way similar to what has been described above and thefastening element 500 is fastened to the frame side member 4 viafasteners in a way similar to what has been described above.

FIG. 10 shows a chassis arrangement 180 according to an eighthembodiment in a perspective, exploded view from above. The eighthembodiment is a variant of the first embodiment. The chassis arrangement180 comprises a fastening element 600 according to a sixth embodiment,which is a variant of the first embodiment. More specifically, thefastening element 600 according to the sixth embodiment differs from thefastening element 100 according to the first embodiment in that thefastening element 600 comprises a third set of holes 660, which extendin parallel with the longitudinal direction 611 of the body 602. Theholes 660 in the third set are open at least at a first end 612 of thebody 602. The first end 612 of the body 602 being further adapted toface upwards when applied to the frame side member. In the shownexample, the holes 660 are through holes, wherein they are also open ata second end 614 of the body 602.

The chassis arrangement 180 further comprises a first component 182 inthe form of a bracket structure, which is a variant of the bracketstructure 6 according to the first embodiment. The bracket structure 182comprises two side walls 184,186. Each one of the side walls 184,186comprises a set of projections 188 in the form of locating pins, whichare rigidly connected to the respective side wall 184,186 and arrangedfor matching and being received in the holes 660 in the third set. Thus,the bracket structure 182 may be hanged onto the fastening element 600via the projections 188 being received in the holes 660. Consequently,during assembly, the fastening elements may first be attached to theframe side member via first fasteners (not shown) in the second set ofthrough holes 664 and then, in a second step, the bracket structure 182is hanged onto the fastening element 600 and then, in a third step, thebracket structure 182 is fastened to the fastening element 600 viafurther fasteners 190 in the first set of through holes 666. In thisway, assembly of the chassis arrangement may be simplified and moretime-efficient in that the operator may hang the bracket structurebefore tightening the fasteners.

FIG. 11 shows the chassis arrangement 150 according to the eighthembodiment in a perspective, exploded view from below. The bracketstructure comprises a stopper 192 in the form of a plate, whichcomprises a hole pattern 194 commensurate with the third set of throughholes 660 for attaching the stopper 192 below the fastening element 600via fasteners 196 in a way that the stopper 192 overlaps with the sidewall 184 in the longitudinal direction of the fastening element 600. Thehang feature in FIG. 10 may be used without the stopper 192 in FIG. 11and vice versa.

It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to theembodiments described above and illustrated in the drawings; rather, theskilled person will recognize that many changes and modifications may bemade within the scope of the appended claims.

For example, the fastening element may be provided with one or severalengagement portions in the form of one or several projections and theassociated component(s) may be provided with one or severalcomplimentary shaped engagement portions in the form of recesses.According to a further alternative, a fastening element may be providedwith a first engagement portion in the form of a recess and a secondengagement portion in the form of a projection.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A vehicle comprising: a chassis arrangementthat comprises: two elongated and parallel frame side members; and afirst vehicle chassis component fastened to at least one of the frameside members via at least one fastening element; wherein the fasteningelement comprises a body, which comprises a first engagement portion ona first side, wherein the first engagement portion comprises either arecess or a projection mating with a complementary shaped engagementportion arranged on the first vehicle chassis component, wherein thebody further comprises a first set of through holes for receipt offasteners, wherein the first set of through holes are positioned in sucha way that the first engagement portion of the body and thecomplementary shaped engagement portion of the first vehicle chassiscomponent may be held against each other in an engaged state via thefasteners, wherein the first set of through holes extend between thefirst side of the body and a second side of the body opposite the firstside, wherein the fastening element comprises a second set of throughholes for receipt of fasteners for fastening the fastening element tothe frame side member, wherein the second set of through holes extendsbetween a third side and a fourth side of the body, and wherein at leastone of the third side and the fourth side of the body comprises a planarsurface.
 2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the firstengagement portion has an elongated shape.
 3. The vehicle according toclaim 2, wherein the first engagement portion has the same crosssectional shape in spaced positions along a longitudinal direction ofthe first engagement portion.
 4. The vehicle according to claim 1,wherein the first engagement portion extends the complete distancebetween opposite ends of the body.
 5. The vehicle according to claim 1,wherein the first engagement portion comprises a recess.
 6. The vehicleaccording to claim 1, wherein the first engagement portion comprises aflat surface.
 7. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein at least onethrough hole of the first set of through holes extend through the firstengagement portion on the first side of the body.
 8. The vehicleaccording to claim 1, wherein the holes in the first set of throughholes are arranged in parallel with each other and spaced from eachother in a first direction.
 9. The vehicle according to claim 1, whereinthe body comprises a second engagement portion on a second side oppositethe first side, wherein the second engagement portion comprises either arecess or a projection.
 10. The vehicle, according to claim 9, whereinthe second engagement portion has an elongated shape.
 11. The vehicleaccording to claim 10, wherein the second engagement portion has thesame cross sectional shape in spaced positions along a longitudinaldirection of the second engagement portion.
 12. The vehicle according toclaim 11, wherein the second engagement portion has the same crosssectional shape as the first engagement portion.
 13. The vehicleaccording to claim 10, wherein the second engagement portion extends inparallel with the first engagement portion.
 14. The vehicle according toclaim 9, wherein the second engagement portion comprises a recess. 15.The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the chassis arrangementcomprises a frame cross member, wherein the first vehicle chassiscomponent is formed by said frame cross member.